What’s the Story Behind This Nissan 350Z with a Toyota GT 86 Face?
Car enthusiasts have always had a knack for pushing boundaries, but every so often, a build comes along that truly turns heads. Case in point: a Nissan 350Z in Japan that’s been given a full Toyota GT 86 front fascia swap. Yes, you read that right—a Z car wearing the face of its Toyota rival. It’s currently up for auction, and the internet can’t stop talking about it.
Why Would Someone Combine a 350Z and a GT 86?
At first glance, the idea sounds wild—maybe even sacrilegious to purists. But in the world of custom cars, standing out is the name of the game. The owner of this 350Z clearly wanted something unique. By grafting on the headlights, fog lights, bumper, and grille from a first-generation GT 86, they’ve created a mashup that’s impossible to ignore. The result? Pure magic, or pure madness, depending on your taste.
The car’s transformation doesn’t stop at the front end. The widebody kit and custom wheels give it a dramatic, almost cartoonish stance. The metallic purple paint is bold, and the candy apple red wheels—while a bit of a color clash—certainly make a statement. Even the bronze brake calipers add to the visual chaos. It’s not for everyone, but it’s hard to look away.
What’s Going On with the Rear and Interior?
If you think the front is wild, wait until you see the back. The rear window has been lowered, there’s a large lip spoiler on the decklid, and a massive wing bolts directly to the bumper. A custom diffuser rounds out the rear, making it look like something straight out of a video game.
Inside, the modifications are just as extensive. The cabin sports carbon fiber bucket seats wrapped in bright red leather, which extends across the door panels, dashboard, transmission tunnel, and even the steering wheel. It’s a bold, cohesive look that ties the interior together. In the trunk, you’ll find tanks for the adjustable air ride suspension—a feature that lets the car sit low for shows and rise up for daily driving.
Is This Mashup Actually Practical or Just for Show?
That’s the million-dollar question. With 67,000 miles on the odometer, this 350Z has seen real road time, not just the inside of a garage. The adjustable air suspension hints at some practicality, allowing the car to clear speed bumps and rough roads. However, the extreme bodywork and color choices suggest this is a car built more for attention than for subtlety.
From a market perspective, modified cars like this can be a gamble. According to a 2023 report from Hagerty, heavily customized vehicles often appeal to a niche audience, which can limit resale value. Still, for the right buyer—someone who wants to make a splash at every meet—this car could be a dream come true.
How Much Is This Custom 350Z Going For?
The car is currently listed on Yahoo! Auctions in Japan with a starting bid of 691,000 yen, or about $4,700 at today’s exchange rate. For context, that’s a fraction of what you’d pay for a new sports car, let alone one with this level of customization. Of course, the real value depends on how much you appreciate the artistry (or audacity) of the build.
What Do Experts and Enthusiasts Think?
Opinions are split, as you might expect. Some see it as a creative expression—proof that car culture is alive and well, and that there are no rules when it comes to personalizing your ride. Others argue that the 350Z’s original design is iconic and shouldn’t be tampered with, especially not with parts from a different brand.
Automotive designer and custom car judge Kei Miura has often said that the best builds are the ones that reflect the owner’s personality, even if they’re polarizing. This 350Z certainly fits that bill. It’s a rolling conversation starter, and in the world of custom cars, that’s often the point.
Should You Consider a Wild Custom Build Like This?
If you’re thinking about modifying your own car, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, know your audience—some mods will make your car more valuable to the right buyer, while others could make it harder to sell. Second, consider practicality. Air suspension and widebody kits look great, but they can complicate daily driving. And finally, don’t be afraid to take risks. The most memorable cars are the ones that break the mold.
The big takeaway? Customizing your car isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments. Start with one change this week, and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end.